Schedule
What to Expect
New Student Orientation is a six-day program that will begin on Tuesday, August 25 and end on Sunday, August 30, 2009
Check out the New Student Orientation 2009 schedule (PDF). You will be receiving a hard copy of this orientation schedule alongwith your Arrival Survival information in July.
Itinerary
All New Student Schedule
Click on the the date links to view daily schedule.
International Students Preorientation Workshop
Day 1: Tuesday, August 25, 2009
9 a.m.– 5 p.m. University Counseling Center professional staff members will be available to meet with students and parents who would like the opportunity to talk with them about counseling services for personal and mental health concerns. Students who are currently in treatment and taking medication are encouraged to meet the staff. |
2–5 p.m. Get the edge you need! Achieving academic success at Pitt is in your hands, and there are a variety of free academic resources available for you to take advantage of while you are here. The following academic enhancement centers will be holding open houses:
While visiting the ARC, you also may pick up some information on the Writing Center and Statistics Computing Lab. Anyone needing detailed directions can stop by Orientation Station, located in the William Pitt Union, Lower Lounge, for assistance. |
2–2:15 p.m. Have you been to any great shows, art galleries, or concerts lately? At this brief presentation, you will find out how you can enjoy the fantastic arts scene offered by Pittsburgh’s cultural community. |
2–3 p.m. Come and learn about the thousands of international opportunities available to Pitt students while abroad— studying, internships, research, service learning, and more! |
3–4 p.m. This informative program presented by a University police officer will focus on student safety on campus as well as in Oakland and its surrounding areas. Parents will learn how the University keeps students safe and helpful tips for students on an urban campus. |
3–4 p.m. Come and learn about the services and programs that will help you to navigate the University. In this interactive program, you will hear about the different ways to get connected at Pitt. |
4–5 p.m. Welcome to the United States! Now what should you expect? How will you adapt to your new culture and surroundings? This fun, interactive presentation will give you insight into your first few months here at Pitt and help you through your cultural adjustment. |
4–5 p.m. Come and learn about the Panther Parents Association. If you are interested in connecting with other Pitt parents and with the Division of Student Affairs, this is the right organization for you. Find out how you can become involved at this information session and offer your own insight and knowledge to this new organization created just for parents. Light refreshments will be served. |
5–7 p.m. Join PITT ARTS to enjoy a taste of the Artful Wednesdays programs that students can enjoy every Wednesday in the fall in this very location. Musicians provided by PITT ARTS. |
5–10 p.m. Don’t buy it at home and carry it all the way to Pittsburgh. Knowing you’ll have the chance to shop at Target surely will make your move to Pitt more enjoyable and your luggage a little lighter. |
6 p.m. A one-act play will be performed by students from Pitt’s Department of Theatre Arts. More details are available at www.play.pitt.edu. |
7–9 p.m. A family favorite! Discover Pittsburgh’s distinctive food, history, and cultural community at this fun event. Learn about Pittsburgh’s vibrant arts and entertainment scene, sample food from local restaurants, and enjoy music from local entertainers |
9–11 p.m. Enjoy this opportunity to meet Kathy Humphrey, vice provost and dean of students, in a relaxed, fun, and informal setting. Cool down with all-you-can-eat ice cream, served by your very own Division of Student Affairs directors and staff, while enjoying lively entertainment. This is a meet and eat event |
Day 2: Wednesday, August 26, 2009
8–9 a.m. Feeling sluggish and worn out? Come get energized and refreshed! Led by a board-certified music therapist, this session will incorporate stretching and light exercise with progressive muscle relaxation to help you de-stress and take on whatever the day may bring. |
9–9:15 a.m. Have you been to any great shows, art galleries, or concerts lately? At this brief presentation, you will find out how you can enjoy the fantastic arts scene offered by Pittsburgh’s cultural community. |
9–10 a.m. What happens when students need primary health care? |
10–11 a.m. The classroom culture and expectations in the United States are most likely very different from your home culture. Learn how to take notes, write papers, and participate in classroom discussions, and find out where to go if you need help. |
10–11:30 a.m. Come to a program that will prepare you—the parents, guardians, and families—for what lies ahead after your student begins college. During this humorous and lighthearted yet highly educational program, parents’ fears are alleviated and their most basic and pressing questions are answered. If you already have experienced sending a student to college, come lend your knowledge to this interactive program. Following the presentation, please stay and learn about the Panther Parents Association. Find out how you can become involved at this information session and offer your own insight and knowledge in this new organization created just for parents. Light refreshments will be served |
10–11 a.m. Problem or compulsive gambling can strain relationships, lives, and careers. In some cases, it can cause irreparable damage. This program is intended to inform you of the myths, facts, signs, symptoms, and resources related to gambling addiction and problem gambling. Don’t wait until you’re 21 to beat the odds. What you know now can and will make a difference in the choices you make in the future. |
11 a.m.–noon The Office of Student Life was created with you, the student, in mind. Learn how we can help to ease your transition to campus and make your experience at Pitt more rewarding. |
Noon–1 p.m. From the trailblazing Rainbow Alliance community, to the historically rich Black Action Society, to an explosion of languages and cultures from students around the world, your neighbors in the Office of Cross-Cultural and Leadership Development at Pitt welcome you! Information about student groups, ranging from Greek Life to the Campus Women’s Organization, will be awaiting you. Opportunities for leadership development are endless, as you will explore the variety of immersion, international education, and personal and community development initiatives. Featuring a sampling of global cuisine and CCLD’s very own DJ DyVerse, this will be the party to start off your school year! |
1–2 p.m. Come and learn about the services and programs that the Office of Commuter Student Programs provides for you, our commuters! In this interactive program, you will hear about the different ways you can get connected at Pitt, including meeting and talking with fellow commuter students and the Commuter Student Association. Be sure to pick up your welcome kit and your Class of 2013 shirt at the end of the program. |
| 2–5 p.m. REQUIRED PROGRAM |
|---|
|
2 p.m. Commuter Student Meet-Up Opening Orientation Program! 3–4 p.m. During this ceremony, Chancellor Mark A. Nordenberg and other distinguished members of the University will welcome our newest students and celebrate their successful transition to the University of Pittsburgh. 4–5 p.m. Mingle with University faculty, students, and staff at this informal gathering hosted by Chancellor Mark A. Nordenberg |
5–6 p.m. Don’t miss this opportunity to tour the facilities of the Student Health Service. You’re invited to meet the clinicians, explore the primary care facility, visit the pharmacy, and get answers to all of your health services questions. |
5:30–5:45 p.m. Have you been to any great shows, art galleries, or concerts lately? At this brief presentation, you will find out how you can enjoy the fantastic arts scene that is offered by Pittsburgh’s cultural community. |
| 6:30–10 p.m. REQUIRED PROGRAMS |
|---|
|
6:30 p.m. Commuter Student Meet-Up Groups will alternate between attending “The Truth” presentation and residence hall floor/commuter student meetings. “The Truth” Pitt isn’t Vegas; what happens at Pitt does not stay at Pitt.
In this funny, engaging presentation, you will explore
the truth about your upcoming experience as a college
student. Various types of media as well as stories and
humor are incorporated into this compelling look at college
life. Get ready to rethink your approach to weekends Residence Hall Floor Meeting This meeting provides you with an opportunity to meet your resident assistant and the other students living on your floor. You also will receive important information about your residence hall and the University prior to the start of classes. Commuter Student Meeting |
7:30–9 p.m. PARENTS You’ve made a huge investment in your student that has led him or her to a world-class university. The continued investment of both you and your student in the collegiate experience is critical. Pitt will provide your student with a holistic education that will prepare him or her for a career, graduate or professional school, and life. Come learn about Pitt’s Outside the Classroom Curriculum from Kathy Humphrey, vice provost and dean of students, to understand how Pitt plans to educate your “whole student” and provide opportunities for your student to gain a competitive edge upon graduating. Reception with Vice Provost and Dean of Students Kathy Humphrey Following the program, please join Kathy Humphrey
for a reception sponsored by the Panther Parents
Association.
Parents are welcome to attend “The Truth” presentation |
10 p.m.–1 a.m. This is the first event of the First Year Cup 2009. The First Year Cup is a fun way to attend campus events, learn about your school, and meet other students. Attend programs, have fun, and win prizes. It’s that simple. Game and Carnival Night: A Night at the Union Avenue Lawn (schedule available at the door) A fun-filled game and craft night in the union. Take a shot at some Monte Carlo games or try your hand at creating picture frames, beaded necklaces, and other great crafts. Enjoy carnival foods such as cotton candy, popcorn, and nachos. There is something for everyone! First Year Mentor Reception Connect with your First Year Mentors (FYMs) as they host a kickoff party at Nordy’s Place, where you can chill and watch a movie, play a game of pool, check out the Commuter Student Lounge, and challenge your new friends to an interactive game in the GIGS Game Center. FYMs will be there to share their experiences as college students at Pitt—and yes, there will be food |
Day 3: Thursday, August 27, 2009
| 9:15 a.m. Panther March to Your “Pathway” Schenley Quad and Sutherland Hall Patio Come and march to the beat of the Pitt band and celebrate all of your Pitt spirit and pride. The band will lead you from either Schenley Quad or the Sutherland Hall patio to the Petersen Events Center, where you will take part in the Pathway to Your Success at Pitt program. Come and jumpstart your morning with panther pride! |
| 10 a.m.–noon REQUIRED PROGRAM |
Pathway to Your Success at Pitt:
A Pitt Tradition Led by Provost James V. Maher, this session will provide an exciting overview of the excellent opportunities for you to succeed at the University. You will learn more about the importance of your academic journey and the tools you will need to make the successful transition from a student to an educated, self-aware global citizen. In addition, Vice Provost and Dean of Students Kathy Humphrey will introduce you to Pitt’s Outside the Classroom Curriculum, a program designed to provide opportunities for you to gain a competitive edge upon graduating. The program will be assisted by the Pitt band, cheerleaders, and student leaders, who will help you to learn Pitt fight songs, the alma mater, traditions, and history. |
|---|
|
2–2:15 p.m. Have you been to any great shows, art galleries, or concerts
lately? At this brief presentation, you will find out how
you can enjoy the fantastic arts scene that is offered by
Pittsburgh’s cultural community. |
|
2–3 p.m. Students face many challenges beyond the classroom, and some decisions can last a lifetime. This interactive program presented by Monster.com is designed to provide you with the tips that will help you to succeed in your first year at Pitt. During this segment, we will explore the short- and long-term impacts of effective money management and basic strategies for getting started on the right financial path. Students and parents are strongly encouraged to attend. |
|
3–4 p.m. These next four years are going to fly by, and sooner than you realize, you will be graduating and searching for a job. This program presented by the Office of Student Employment and Placement Assistance will help students to recognize that the choices they make during their first year on campus can have a major impact on future opportunities. |
|
3–4 p.m. Learn the basics of banking and money in the United States.
What is a checking account, a savings account, or an ATM
or MAC card? What is the best way to transfer money from
home and pay your tuition bills? All of these questions will |
|
5–8:30 p.m. Meet Head Coach Dave Wannstedt and the 2009 Pittsburgh Panthers football team at Heinz Field—the best college football stadium in the country! All students and families are invited to attend. The event features great activities for fans of all ages: team autographs, games and prizes, and a team open practice to round out the night. Admission is free! |
5–10 p.m. Don’t buy it at home and carry it all the way to Pittsburgh. Knowing you’ll have the chance to shop at Target surely will make your move to Pitt more enjoyable and your luggage a little lighter. |
|
7:05 p.m. Join us at PNC Park as the Pittsburgh Pirates take on the Philadelphia Phillies. As an added bonus, August 27 is T-shirt night at PNC Park, so those attending will receive a free Pirates T-shirt! Discounted tickets are available at the William Pitt Union ticket office. Tickets are $5 on a firstcome, first-served basis and include round-trip bus ride. You must have a ticket to ride on the bus. Tickets are limited and must be purchased in advance. |
|
8 p.m. A one-act play will be performed by students from Pitt’s Department of Theatre Arts. More details are available at www.play.pitt.edu. |
|
9–10:30 p.m. Come out and meet fellow students in a relaxing, tropical atmosphere. Enjoy the hula dancers and live music while munching on some snacks and drinks native to the islands. You and your friends also can take part in such activities as the limbo, tropical-themed photos, or even having your name translated into Hawaiian. |
|
10 p.m.–midnight This show rocks! It’s got everything: hot music, a big stage set, great lighting, and a live DJ. Test your knowledge and intellect in this 90-minute battle-of-wits trivia game show where everyone is a participant. You might win a large cash prize in this winner-take-all game! |
|
10 p.m.–1 a.m. Come and hang out at Nordy’s Place, where you can play Guitar Hero on the big screen, play a game of pool, check out the Commuter Student Lounge, explore more interactive games in the GIGS Game Center, or just relax—and yes, there will be food. |
|
PARENTS and Families Thank you so much for attending our orientation programs and events. We hope that you had a wonderful experience! From this point on, you are welcome to stay; however, all programs—except Lantern Night—are for students. Please make plans to attend Family Weekend, October 23–25, 2009, our next big event for families. For more information, go to www.familyweekend.pitt.edu. |
|---|
Day 4: Friday, August 28, 2008
| 9 a.m.–1 p.m. REQUIRED PROGRAM Mandatory Academic Programs |
|---|
|
During these mandatory programs, you will receive valuable information and meet faculty, staff, and future classmates. School of Arts and Sciences:
College of Business Administration: Swanson School of Engineering: School of Nursing: |
Come and have lunch with the Commuter Student Association and learn the ins and outs of commuting to Pitt from the people who know best—other commuter students. Rain location: William Pitt Union, Nordy’s Place |
|
2–3 p.m. Health insurance is a very important step in your process. All international students are strongly encouraged to have health care coverage. Learn how to navigate the U.S. health care system. Learn how to use the Student Health Service and what is covered under that policy. This informative presentation will help you through the sometimes confusing process. |
|
2–2:15 p.m. Have you been to any great shows, art galleries, or concerts lately? At this brief presentation, you will find out how you can enjoy the fantastic arts scene that is offered by Pittsburgh’s cultural community. |
|
2–4 p.m. Join career consultants from the Career Development Office for an interactive session that will help you to identify your Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) profile. MBTI is often used to help students clarify their working and career preferences. This session will be helpful to all students, whether you have decided on a major or not. Begin your journey of career exploration today! |
|
4 p.m. The Panther Book Club provides an opportunity for firstyear students to enjoy current books and challenge their minds while engaging in stimulating discussions with other Pitt students and staff. Please join us for this informational session to discuss this semester’s book selections, meeting times, and much more! |
|
4–6 p.m. Come hang out at Nordy’s Place, a popular gathering place for Pitt students! Challenge a fellow commuter to a game of Guitar Hero while munching on some popcorn, or sit back and relax with your favorite flavor from our “slushee” bar. The first 25 commuter students to arrive receive a T-shirt! |
|
4–7 p.m. All first-year students should have completed the online AlcoholWise course prior to arriving on campus. If you have not yet completed AlcoholWise, you should use part of this time to complete this requirement. If you don’t have a computer in your room, labs on campus will be open at this time for students who have yet to finish the course. Students also can use this time to log on and register for the Outside the Classroom Curriculum. |
|
4–4:15 p.m. Have you been to any great shows, art galleries, or concerts lately? At this brief presentation, you will find out how you can enjoy the fantastic arts scene that is offered by Pittsburgh’s cultural community. |
|
4:30 p.m. Want to get involved in Pitt theater? Need some advice on auditions? Theatrefest is for you. Eat, mingle, and compete for prizes with the theatre arts department. More details are available at www.play.pitt.edu. |
5–6 p.m. Do you have questions about Greek Life? Hear the answers from students in fraternities and sororities. You will have a chance to interact and learn more about a great way to get involved, create lasting relationships, and become a student leader. |
|
5–10 p.m. Don’t buy it at home and carry it all the way to Pittsburgh. Knowing you’ll have the chance to shop at Target surely will make your move to Pitt more enjoyable and your luggage a little lighter. |
|
5–8 p.m. Experience one of Oakland’s hidden gems at the Pittsburgh Athletic Association. This underground bowling alley provides the perfect opportunity for you to test your skills. Even if bowling isn’t your game, you can still hang out with the Class of 2013 and enjoy some music, food, games, and more! |
|
9 p.m.–midnight Head over to the union for a night of fun with the Pitt Program Council. There will a live DJ and laser tag going on throughout the evening. Enjoy free popcorn, snow cones, and cotton candy. |
|
11 p.m.–1 a.m. An Oakland Teahouse just for you, our new students. The
Oakland Teahouse provides tea, conversation, and community.
So come and get a preview and play games, participate in a
discussion, meet other students, or just lounge around with |
|
11 p.m.–2 a.m. Do you play an instrument or have vocal talent? Do you like to read poetry or do stand-up comedy? If the answer is yes, then come perform at Open Mic Night. Sign up to perform at Orientation Station or at the door. Spots are first come, first served. Even if you don’t have musical talent, you can come and enjoy a night of great performances from your own Class of 2013. |
|
Midnight–2 a.m. Try your luck at B-I-N-G-O for a chance to win a ton of great prizes for your first term at Pitt. |
Day 5: Saturday, August 29, 2009
| 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Social, Fitness, and Wellness Activities If you want to keep active with sports or fitness classes or perhaps you want to relax and be pampered with a massage, come and enjoy a day of fun-filled, stress-free events and activities suited to your interests. Space is limited. See a representative at Orientation Station, located in the William Pitt Union, Lower Lounge, to register.
8:30 a.m. 9–10 a.m. 10–10:50 a.m. Come learn the physical movements and meditative breathing that make this ancient form of exercise an excellent source of relaxation!
11–11:50 a.m. and 1–1:50 p.m. 11 a.m.–noon and 1–2 p.m. Noon–12:50 p.m. and 2–2:50 p.m. 3–4:30 p.m. 4–5 p.m. Come join Black Dance Workshop (BDW) and expand your dance skills and knowledge. BDW perpetuates the African American perspective on dance styles such as jazz, African, spiritual, hip hop, modern, tap, and ballet. |
|
11 a.m.–5 p.m. Open Basketball Day at the Spa Dodgeball Tournament |
|
The Ultimate Field Day (Badminton, Kickball,
Frisbee, Volleyball, and Four-Square)
4–8 p.m. Discover your new neighborhood. OBID staff will organize teams and provide you with a map. Then it’s up to you to follow the clues to the right Oakland locations. After the scavenger hunt, join OBID for pizza, subs, and Italian ice at Carlow University. |
|
7:30 p.m. Join other students in the excitement of Pittsburgh Steelers action as you watch the Steelers take on the Buffalo Bills in a thrilling preseason matchup. |
|
9–10 p.m. Head over to the union to laugh and be amazed by comic/ magician Lee Terbosic! His comical delivery and ability to make miracles happen right under your nose will have you laughing all the way to your next event. |
|
10 p.m.–2 a.m. Music Extravaganza |
|
10 p.m.–midnight Come show off your talent at our karaoke night. Sing alone or in a group. With hundreds of songs from which to choose, everyone can sing their favorites. |
|
11:30 p.m.–2 a.m. Looks like it’s going to be a scorcher. Can you take the heat? Come find out at Pitt’s hottest dance party. You won’t want to miss this. |
|
Midnight Got the midnight munchies? Stop do |
Day 6: Sunday, August 30, 2009
2–5 p.m. Learn about the more than 350 student organizations at Pitt, all of which need you to get involved in the hundreds of activities that take place over the course of the year. Meet the student representatives of these organizations and win prizes. |
|
3, 3:30, and 4 p.m. Want to get involved at Pitt and give back to your campus and community? Stop by 1500 Wesley W. Posvar Hall during the Student Activities Fair to learn more about Pitt Make A Difference Day. In this 20-minute session, you will learn how Pitt’s day of service can benefit both you and the city of Pittsburgh. Prizes will be raffled off at each session. |
|
7:30–9:30 p.m. Established in 1920, the Lantern Night ceremony is
the oldest University tradition. Female alumni pass
the light of learning and inspiration, in the form of
lanterns, to first-year women. The lanterns represent
those used at the time of the founding of the |
|
10 p.m.–midnight With a flashlight and a student leader, you will join hundreds of your peers in search of the locations of fall classes under the darkness of the Pittsburgh sky. |
